Processed foods,
such as boxed macaroni and cheese, potato chips and microwaveable dinners, have
been blamed for U.S. obesity rates, high blood pressure, and prevalence of Type
2 diabetes. However, argues Andrea Giancoli, MPH, RD, and past spokesperson of
the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, we must determine what processed really means.
Processed foods
differ widely from minimally processed (such as bagged spinach and cut fruits
and vegetables) to the most heavily processed (such as frozen or pre-made meals).
While heavily processed foods can have a negative effect on your health, there
are positives to certain processed foods. Milk and juices fortified with
calcium and vitamin D are considered processed, as are pre-cut vegetables, but both
can be beneficial to your health, especially when an individual is living a busy,
on-the-go lifestyle.
To prevent
negative health effects from processed foods, try to consume those more
minimally processed, read labels, and keep an eye out for hidden sugar, sodium
and fat. Sugar can be hidden in foods such as bread, added to give the
appealing brown hue. Sodium is often used to enhance flavor and texture, as
well as help preserve the food, but with the addition of processed foods, you
can easily exceed the Dietary Guidelines
for Americans’ recommendation of less than 2,300 milligrams a day. Fats are
added for shelf-stability, but have the capability of raising cholesterol and
negatively impacting our health. Being aware of exactly what you are consuming
by reading labels can help you find the nutritious, and avoid the not-so-nutritious,
processed foods!
Read full
article at:
No comments:
Post a Comment